Hyderabad is gearing up for the much-anticipated 84th edition of the All India Industrial Exhibition, popularly known as Numaish. Initially scheduled to commence on January 1, the exhibition’s opening has been postponed to January 3 (Friday) following the Telangana government’s seven-day mourning period announced after the passing of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy is expected to inaugurate the event.
The exhibition is expected to draw 25 lakh attendees this year; last year recorded a footfall of 22 lakh. Ticket prices have been revised to ₹50, a modest increase from last year’s ₹40.
One of the standout features this year is a Times Square-style display screen. This LED-screen installation will showcase advertisements as well as photos and videos of visitors, which can be shared with them, said Suresh Kumar, convenor of the Exhibition Society. Efforts have also been made to resolve past issues related to mobile network connectivity. “Mobile network and mobile data will function smoothly, ensuring hassle-free UPI payments,” he added.
The exhibition will also feature a new double-decker bus, alongside the popular mini-train, to provide visitors a unique tour of the sprawling exhibition grounds. Over 2,000 exhibitors will participate this year, representing State and Central government departments, public sector undertakings, corporates, and multinational companies, announced B. Surender Reddy, honorary secretary of the Exhibition Society.
This year’s Numaish promises to offer an enhanced experience with several upgraded amenities and safety features. Clear signage will be installed to guide visitors to entry, exit, and emergency points, ensuring smooth navigation. Security measures have been strengthened with 100 CCTV cameras and metal detector checks at all entrances.
Free parking facilities will be available around the venue to ease visitor convenience. For entertainment, an open-air theatre will host cultural performances. The exhibition will also have on-site medical services, including a dispensary run by Yashoda Hospitals and a 24×7 ambulance service for emergencies. In addition, ATM facilities and free drinking water stations will be set up.
Cultural, social impact
First held in 1938 at the Public Gardens, the exhibition moved to its current location at Nampally in 1946. Beyond its cultural significance, Numaish plays a vital role in supporting education. Proceeds from the event fund and manage 20 educational institutions in Telangana’s backward areas, benefitting approximately 30,000 students annually.
The exhibition also contributes significantly to government revenue. During the financial year 2023-24, the Exhibition Society generated ₹9.66 crore through GST, trade license fees, property taxes, and utility charges. This figure stood at ₹11.10 crore in 2022-23.
Published – December 30, 2024 12:17 am IST
